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Bill Would Help Local Governments License Marijuana Dispensaries

Mon, 02/24/2020

Cities and counties that wish to regulate commercial cannabis could soon get guidance from the state. Assemblyman Phil Ting (D-San Francisco) has introduced AB 245 to create a “model ordinance” that local governments could replicate.

“It can be tough for local governments to know where to begin when establishing a relatively new type of business in their communities,” said Ting. “I hope my proposal can make the start-up process easier for them, so they can combat the underground market and begin benefitting from increased tax revenue.”

Ting’s office estimates there is one marijuana retailer for every 35,000 adults of legal age in California. Local control is a driving force for the black market because so many local governments still ban cannabis dispensaries; others struggle to help businesses navigate the licensing process.